Nestled in the scenic Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, Camp Zeke offers an unparalleled summer experience for boys and girls ages 7 to 17. Located in the charming town of Lakewood, PA, Camp Zeke is surrounded by natural beauty and notable landmarks, including the pristine shores of Lake Teedyuskung and the lush forests of Promised Land State Park.

Camp Zeke has a rich history that began with its founding in 2014. Inspired by the timeless values of health and wellness, the camp was established to provide a unique blend of traditional summer camp activities with a focus on fitness, culinary arts, and joyful Judaism. Over the years, Camp Zeke has grown into a vibrant community where campers can explore their passions, develop new skills, and create lifelong memories.

The mission of Camp Zeke is to inspire every camper to lead a life of health, wellness, and joy. Guided by the philosophy of “Eat well. Play hard. Live better,” the camp emphasizes nutritious, delicious food, a wide range of physical activities, and a nurturing environment that fosters personal growth and community spirit.

As a camp, Camp Zeke welcomes boys and girls from diverse backgrounds to come together in a supportive and inclusive setting. The camp offers various age-specific programs designed to meet the developmental needs and interests of each age group. From thrilling outdoor adventures and creative arts to leadership development and cultural enrichment, Camp Zeke provides a well-rounded experience that empowers campers to thrive both during the summer and beyond.

Programs Offered by Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, they offer a diverse range of programs designed to cater to the varied interests and passions of their campers. Their goal is to provide a well-rounded and enriching experience that encourages personal growth, skill development, and lifelong friendships.

Description of the Programs:

Fitness and Athletics: Campers engage in a variety of physical activities, including traditional sports like soccer, basketball, and swimming, as well as unique fitness classes such as yoga, martial arts, and dance. Their state-of-the-art facilities and expert instructors ensure that every camper can find an activity they love and improve their physical well-being.
Culinary Arts: Their culinary program teaches campers the joys of cooking and healthy eating. Under the guidance of professional chefs, campers learn to prepare delicious and nutritious meals, experiment with new recipes, and understand the importance of balanced nutrition.
Creative Arts: From painting and pottery to music and drama, their creative arts program allows campers to explore their artistic talents. They offer a variety of classes and workshops that encourage self-expression and creativity.
Outdoor Adventure: Campers experience the great outdoors through activities such as hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing. Their outdoor adventure program emphasizes teamwork, environmental stewardship, and a love for nature.
Cultural Enrichment: Campers participate in activities that celebrate Jewish culture and traditions, including Shabbat services, holiday celebrations, and discussions about Jewish values. This program helps campers connect with their heritage and build a sense of community.

Length of Sessions:

Camp Zeke offers flexible session lengths to accommodate different family schedules and camper needs. Their options include:

One-week sessions
Two-week sessions
Full summer sessions (up to eight weeks)

Specialty Programs:

In addition to their core programs, they offer specialty programs that provide focused instruction and advanced training in specific areas. These include:

Elite Sports Camps: Intensive training camps for athletes looking to improve their skills in specific sports such as soccer, basketball, or swimming.
Chef Academy: A deeper dive into culinary arts, where campers can hone their cooking skills and learn advanced techniques.
Performing Arts Workshop: An immersive experience for campers interested in music, theater, and dance, culminating in a final performance.

Typical Daily Schedule:

A typical day at Camp Zeke is structured to balance activity, relaxation, and community building. Here’s what a day might look like:

7:30 AM: Wake up and morning stretch
8:00 AM: Breakfast
9:00 AM: Morning activity block (choice of fitness, sports, or arts)
10:30 AM: Snack and free time
11:00 AM: Second activity block (outdoor adventure or specialty program)
12:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM: Rest hour/cabin time
2:30 PM: Afternoon activity block (creative arts or cultural enrichment)
4:00 PM: Snack and free time
4:30 PM: Fitness or elective activities
6:00 PM: Dinner
7:00 PM: Evening program (campfire, talent show, or group games)
8:30 PM: Wind-down and evening reflection
9:00 PM: Lights out for younger campers / social time for older campers
10:00 PM: Lights out for older campers

At Camp Zeke, they strive to provide a dynamic and supportive environment where every camper can discover their potential, make lasting memories, and enjoy the best summer ever.

Accommodations in Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, they ensure that their campers are comfortable, well-fed, and have access to clean and modern facilities. Their accommodations are designed to provide a cozy and communal living experience that fosters friendships and a sense of community.

Sleeping Arrangements:

Cabins: Campers stay in spacious, well-maintained cabins that accommodate 8-12 campers each. The cabins are equipped with bunk beds, and individual storage spaces, and are grouped by age and gender. Each cabin is supervised by dedicated counselors who provide support and ensure a safe environment.
Dorms: For their older campers and specialty program participants, they offer dorm-style accommodations that provide a bit more privacy and space. These dorms have comfortable beds, ample storage, and communal living areas for relaxation and socializing.

Dining Options:

Meal Plans: Camp Zeke offers a comprehensive meal plan that includes three nutritious and delicious meals each day, along with snacks. Their meals are prepared by professional chefs who prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Dietary Accommodations: They are committed to catering to the diverse dietary needs of their campers. Whether your child requires vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or kosher meals, their culinary team is equipped to handle various dietary restrictions and allergies. They work closely with parents to ensure that all dietary needs are met and that every camper can enjoy their meals without worry.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities:

Modern Facilities: Their bathrooms and shower facilities are modern, clean, and easily accessible from all cabins and dorms. Each bathroom block is equipped with private showers, sinks, and toilets to ensure the comfort and privacy of their campers.
Regular Maintenance: Their facilities are cleaned and maintained regularly to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and sanitation. They also provide ample hot water and ensure that there are enough facilities to accommodate all campers without long wait times.

At Camp Zeke, they strive to create a home away from home where campers feel comfortable, cared for, and ready to enjoy all the exciting activities and programs they offer.

Activities in Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, they offer a wide range of activities designed to keep campers engaged, active, and entertained. Their programs are crafted to cater to diverse interests, ensuring every camper finds something they love. Here’s a look at the various activities and opportunities they provide:

List of Activities Offered:

Swimming: Summer camps enjoy swimming in their heated outdoor pool and beautiful lake, with lessons and free swim sessions available daily.
Hiking: Guided hikes through the scenic Pocono Mountains, exploring trails and learning about nature and wildlife.
Arts and Crafts: Creative projects including painting, pottery, jewelry making, and woodworking, allowing campers to express their artistic side.
Sports: A variety of sports including soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and archery, with both casual games and competitive tournaments.
Fitness Classes: Yoga, martial arts, dance, and strength training sessions designed to promote physical health and wellness.
Culinary Arts: Hands-on cooking classes where campers learn to prepare nutritious and delicious meals.
Outdoor Adventure: Activities like kayaking, canoeing, zip-lining, rock climbing, and campfire building, promote teamwork and outdoor skills.
Performing Arts: Drama, music, and dance classes culminate in performances that showcase campers’ talents.
Jewish Cultural Activities: Celebrations of Jewish holidays, Shabbat services, and discussions on Jewish values and heritage.
Nature Exploration: Environmental education programs, gardening, and animal care activities to foster a love for nature.

Special Events or Traditions:

Campfires and S’mores: Weekly campfires where campers gather to share stories, sing songs, and enjoy s’mores.
Color War: A friendly competition where campers are divided into teams and participate in various challenges and games.
Talent Shows: An opportunity for campers to showcase their unique talents, from singing and dancing to magic tricks and comedy.
Theme Nights: Fun-filled evenings with themed activities and parties, such as costume contests, dance parties, and game nights.
Maccabiah Games: A camp-wide sports event modeled after the Maccabiah Games, fostering camaraderie and friendly competition.
Shabbat Celebrations: Special Friday night dinners and Saturday activities that bring the camp community together in a spirit of joy and reflection.

Skill Development Opportunities:

Leadership Programs: Workshops and activities designed to develop leadership skills, teamwork, and responsibility, especially for older campers.
Athletic Training: Advanced coaching in various sports to help campers improve their skills and understanding of the game.
Artistic Mastery: Intensive workshops in visual and performing arts, offering campers the chance to refine their techniques and explore new mediums.
Culinary Skills: Cooking classes that teach everything from basic kitchen skills to advanced culinary techniques, promoting healthy eating habits.
Outdoor Survival Skills: Training in camping, orienteering, and wilderness survival, equipping campers with essential outdoor skills.
Fitness and Wellness: Programs focused on physical health, including personalized fitness plans and wellness education.

At Camp Zeke, they are dedicated to providing a comprehensive and enriching summer experience that allows campers to discover new passions, develop valuable skills, and create lasting memories.

The staff of Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, their staff plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe, fun, and enriching experience for every camper. They pride themselves on having a dedicated and highly qualified team committed to providing excellent care and guidance.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio:

Personalized Attention: They maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio of approximately 1:4, ensuring that each camper receives personalized attention and support. This ratio allows their staff to build strong relationships with campers and provide a safe, nurturing environment.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications:

Rigorous Selection: Their hiring process is thorough and selective. Prospective staff members undergo multiple rounds of interviews, including in-person or virtual interviews, reference checks, and background checks.
Qualified Professionals: They seek individuals with a passion for working with children and relevant experience in education, coaching, or youth development. Many of their staff members are teachers, coaches, college students pursuing careers in education or youth services, and seasoned camp professionals.
Diverse Team: Their team is diverse, bringing a wide range of skills and backgrounds to enrich the camp experience. They hire staff from across the country and around the world to create a vibrant, inclusive community.

Training and Certifications:

Pre-Camp Training: All staff members participate in an extensive pre-camp training program that covers camp policies, safety protocols, activity planning, and child development. This training ensures that staff are well-prepared to handle various situations and provide high-quality care.
CPR and First Aid Certification: Every staff member is certified in CPR and First Aid. They provide these certifications through accredited training programs to ensure staff can respond effectively to medical emergencies.
Specialized Training: In addition to general training, staff members receive specialized training relevant to their roles. For example, lifeguards are trained in water safety and rescue techniques, while activity instructors receive training in their specific areas of expertise, such as sports coaching, art instruction, or outdoor adventure leadership.
Ongoing Professional Development: Throughout the summer, they provide ongoing professional development opportunities to help staff continuously improve their skills and knowledge. This includes workshops, mentoring, and performance evaluations.

At Camp Zeke, their dedicated staff is the backbone of their camp community. Their commitment to excellence, safety, and camper well-being ensures that every child has a memorable and transformative summer experience.

Safety and Health in Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, the safety and well-being of their campers are their top priorities. They have established comprehensive safety protocols, on-site health facilities, and emergency policies to ensure a secure and healthy environment for all campers.

Safety Protocols and Procedures:

Supervision: With a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:4, they ensure close supervision of all activities. Counselors and staff are trained to maintain a watchful eye on campers at all times, both during structured activities and free time.
Activity Safety: All activities are conducted under the guidance of trained instructors who follow strict safety guidelines. They regularly inspect equipment and facilities to ensure they meet safety standards.
Daily Health Checks: They conduct daily health checks to monitor campers for any signs of illness or injury. This includes temperature checks and visual assessments by their health staff.
Security Measures: Their campgrounds are secured with controlled entry points, ensuring that only authorized personnel and visitors have access. They also conduct regular safety drills, including fire drills and lockdown procedures.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff:

Health Center: Camp Zeke has a fully equipped health center staffed with qualified medical professionals, including registered nurses and a resident doctor. The health center is open 24/7 to address any medical needs that arise.
Medication Management: They have a robust system for managing and administering camper medications. Parents provide detailed medical information before camp, and their health staff ensures that medications are stored safely and administered according to schedule.
Injury and Illness Response: Their health staff is trained to handle a wide range of medical issues, from minor injuries to more serious conditions. They have protocols in place for treating common camp-related injuries and illnesses promptly and effectively.

Policies on Handling Emergencies:

Emergency Preparedness: They have comprehensive emergency preparedness plans that cover various scenarios, including medical emergencies, severe weather, and other potential risks. Staff members are trained in these procedures during pre-camp training.
Emergency Communication: In the event of an emergency, they have clear communication protocols to ensure timely and accurate information is relayed to all necessary parties, including campers, staff, and parents. They utilize multiple communication channels, including phone, email, and text alerts.
First Aid and CPR: All staff members are certified in First Aid and CPR, ensuring that they can respond immediately to any medical emergency. They also have AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) strategically placed around the campgrounds.
Hospital Access: For emergencies requiring advanced medical care, they have established relationships with nearby hospitals and medical facilities. They ensure that transportation is readily available to get campers to these facilities quickly if needed.
Parental Notification: In case of any serious injury or illness, parents are notified immediately. They maintain open lines of communication with parents to keep them informed about their child’s health and well-being.

At Camp Zeke, they are committed to creating a safe and healthy environment where campers can thrive. Their rigorous safety protocols, well-equipped health facilities, and comprehensive emergency procedures ensure that they are prepared to handle any situation that may arise, providing peace of mind for parents and a secure experience for campers.

Cost and Registration in Camp Zeke

At Camp Zeke, they aim to provide an enriching summer experience while offering flexible options to accommodate different family budgets. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the cost, registration process, payment plans, and financial aid opportunities available at Camp Zeke.

Cost of Attendance:

The cost of attendance at Camp Zeke includes:

Tuition: The tuition fee covers all camp activities, meals, accommodations, and supervision by their qualified staff. It also includes access to their state-of-the-art facilities and participation in all special events and traditions.
Session Lengths and Costs:
- One-week session: $1,500
- Two-week session: $2,800
- Full summer session (up to eight weeks): $9,500
Included Services: All meals and snacks, basic health care services at the on-site health center, activity supplies, and camp t-shirt.
Additional Costs: Optional specialty programs, transportation to and from camp, and camp merchandise may incur additional fees.

Registration Process and Deadlines:

Online Registration: Families can register their children online through Camp Zeke. The registration process includes completing an application form, providing medical information, and selecting the desired session length.
Deadlines: Early registration is encouraged as sessions can fill up quickly. They offer an early bird discount for registrations completed by March 1. Regular registration deadlines are typically one month before the start of each session, but they recommend registering as early as possible to secure a spot.
Confirmation: Upon completion of the registration process, families will receive a confirmation email with further details about camp preparation, packing lists, and additional required forms.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies:

Payment Plans: They offer flexible payment plans to help families manage the cost of camp. Families can choose to pay in full at the time of registration or opt for a monthly installment plan. Their installment plans can be customized to fit individual needs.
Refunds and Cancellations: Their refund policy is designed to be fair and accommodating:
- Cancellations made more than 60 days before the start of the session will receive a full refund, minus a non-refundable deposit of $200.
- Cancellations made between 30 and 60 days before the session will receive a 50% refund.
- No refunds are available for cancellations made less than 30 days before the session start date.
- In the event of a medical emergency or other unforeseen circumstances, they will work with families on a case-by-case basis to provide appropriate accommodations or refunds.
Cancellation Insurance: They recommend that families consider purchasing cancellation insurance to cover any unforeseen events that might prevent attendance.

Availability of Scholarships or Financial Aid:

Scholarships: Camp Zeke is committed to making camp accessible to as many families as possible. They offer a limited number of need-based scholarships to help offset the cost of attendance. Scholarship applications are available online and must be submitted by March 1 for consideration.
Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, they provide financial aid options based on family income and specific needs. Families are encouraged to apply early, as funds are limited.
Partnership Programs: They partner with various community organizations and foundations that provide additional funding opportunities for families in need.

At Camp Zeke, they strive to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the magic of summer camp. They are dedicated to working with families to find the best financial solutions to make camp a reality for their children.

Parent and Camper Preparation in Camp Zeke

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at Camp Zeke, they provide detailed guidance on what to pack, their camp rules and policies, and tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List:

Here is a suggested packing list to help campers prepare for their stay at Camp Zeke:

Clothing:

T-shirts and tank tops
Shorts and long pants
Sweatshirts or hoodies
Light jacket or raincoat
Pajamas
Underwear and socks
Swimsuits (at least two)
Sneakers and sandals
Hat or cap
Laundry bag

Bedding:

Sleeping bag or twin-size sheets and blanket
Pillow and pillowcase

Toiletries:

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Soap or body wash
Hairbrush or comb
Sunscreen and lip balm
Bug spray
Towels (bath and beach)

Miscellaneous:

Reusable water bottle
Flashlight with extra batteries
Books or magazines
Stationery and stamps for letters
Small backpack or daypack

Optional Items:

Camera
Musical instrument
Sports equipment (e.g., tennis racket)
Favorite stuffed animal

Rules and Policies:

Technology Use:

No Electronic Devices: To encourage social interaction and outdoor activities, they have a strict no-electronics policy. Campers are not allowed to bring cell phones, tablets, or other electronic devices. If a camper needs to call home, they can use the camp office phone under supervision.

Visitation:

Visitation Policy: For the safety and well-being of all campers, they do not permit visits during camp sessions. This policy helps campers fully immerse themselves in the camp experience and fosters independence. They do host an open house before the camp season starts, where families can tour the campgrounds and meet the staff.

Health and Safety:

Medications: All medications must be handed to the camp nurse upon arrival. Campers are not allowed to keep medications in their cabins.
Nut-Free Camp: To ensure the safety of campers with allergies, Camp Zeke is a nut-free camp. Please do not pack any food items containing nuts.

Behavioral Expectations:

Respect and Inclusion: They expect all campers to treat each other with respect and kindness. Bullying, harassment, or exclusion will not be tolerated.
Participation: Campers are encouraged to participate in all activities and to try new things. They foster an environment where effort and enthusiasm are valued over skill level.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents:

For Campers:

Stay Positive: Embrace the new experience with an open mind. Camp is a great opportunity to make new friends and learn new skills.
Get Involved: Participate in as many activities as possible. The more you engage, the more fun you’ll have.
Stay Organized: Keep your belongings organized to make it easier to find what you need.
Communicate: If you feel homesick or have any concerns, talk to your counselors. They are there to help and support you.

For Parents:

Encourage Independence: Help your child pack their bags and discuss what to expect at camp to boost their confidence and independence.
Write Letters: Send positive and encouraging letters to your child. Receiving mail from home can be a highlight of their day.
Trust the Process: It’s normal to feel anxious about sending your child to camp but trust that they are in good hands. Camp Zeke staff are trained to handle various situations and to provide a safe, nurturing environment.
Prepare for Homesickness: Homesickness is natural. Reassure your child that it’s okay to miss home and that it usually gets better after the first few days.

By following these guidelines and tips, both campers and parents can feel confident and prepared for a fantastic summer at Camp Zeke. They look forward to welcoming your family to their camp community!

Camp Zeke offers a unique summer camp experience that blends the joys of traditional camp activities with a focus on health, wellness, and joyful Judaism. Nestled in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, their camp provides a safe, nurturing environment where boys and girls aged 7 to 17 can explore their passions, develop new skills, and create lifelong memories.

With a dedicated staff, a variety of enriching programs, and a commitment to safety and inclusion, Camp Zeke ensures that every camper enjoys a transformative and unforgettable summer. From fitness and culinary arts to outdoor adventures and creative arts, they offer something for everyone, fostering personal growth and community spirit.